In a major coordinated crackdown, the São Paulo Civil Police and the Public Ministry have launched Operation Caronte, a significant offensive against an alleged money laundering network tied to international drug trafficking and the powerful criminal organization Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC). The operation, named after the mythical Greek ferryman of the dead, unfolded across multiple cities in São Paulo state.
The central figure in the investigation is Eduardo Magrini, widely known by his alias 'Diabo Loiro' (Blonde Devil). Magrini, who cultivated an online persona as a digital influencer showcasing a lavish lifestyle to over 100,000 followers, was arrested in late 2025. That arrest was part of a separate probe by the Gaeco unit in Campinas, which suspected his involvement in a PCC plot to assassinate prosecutor Amauri Silveira Filho.
Authorities are now focusing on the financial trail. Investigators allege that Magrini and his associates used 'straw man' partners and companies in the transportation and rodeo event sectors to launder proceeds from drug trafficking. The scheme reportedly dates back to 2016 and intensified in recent years, as flagged by financial intelligence units.
The operation executed 11 search and seizure warrants across a wide geographic area, including Campinas, Atibaia, Monte Mor, Sumaré, Limeira, Mogi das Cruzes, Osasco, and Taquaritinga. This action was a joint effort between the Specialized Sector for Combating Corruption, Organized Crime, and Money Laundering (SECCOLD) and the Gaeco of Campinas.
The investigation extends to Magrini's family network. His son, Mateus Magrini, is also a target of the current warrants. He is suspected of moving illicit funds through a company in the music industry. Mateus was previously a target in the Federal Police's 'Narco Fluxo' operation, which also involved the rapper MC Ryan, who is identified as Eduardo Magrini's former stepson.
Investigators state that these family connections support their theory that the Magrini family unit was actively engaged in money laundering activities. The financial probe was bolstered by analysis from the Money Laundering Laboratory (Lab-LD) and data from the Financial Activities Control Council (COAF), which revealed financial movements incompatible with the suspects' declared incomes.
A key outcome of the operation has been a court order to block R$10 million from the bank accounts of those under investigation. The freeze also extends to vehicles and other assets registered in the suspects' names, striking a direct blow at the alleged illicit wealth.
Eduardo Magrini's criminal history is extensive. According to the Public Ministry, he has been involved in criminal activities for approximately 30 years, with prior convictions for drug trafficking and the use of false documents dating back to 1998. His online persona, featuring luxury cars and travel, stood in stark contrast to the allegations against him.
Based on reporting from g1.